Liechtenstein
Eco-friendly travel guide to Liechtenstein advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Liechtenstein, Europe.
- Air quality: 5 / 5
- Bus connections: 3.5 / 5
- Train connections: 3.5 / 5
- Hitchhiking: 4 / 5
- National parks: 4 / 5
- Outdoor activities: 4 / 5
- Locals' English level: 3.5 / 5
- Safety: 5 / 5
- Accommodation: US$50 - $1400
- Budget per day: US$90 - $2000
Contents
Responsible Travel
A runt of a country, Liechtenstein cuddles between Switzerland and Austria, among the mountain ranges that transcend the Rhine. Other than the sheer opulence of visiting one of the world's littlest and most extravagant nations, Liechtenstein is unadulterated fantasy stuff, a mountain realm represented by an iron-willed ruler, installed somewhere down in the Alps and delegated by turreted palaces. The country has a very strong economy and though by volume it may not be the largest, it does have the highest GDP per person across the globe. It was once a tax haven and though much has changed with regard to that it is yet principally a banking country with manufacturing industries related to pharmaceuticals, metals, textiles, electronics and much more. The taxation is yet quite flexible here in Liechtenstein and tourism also contributes greatly to the local economy. Considering all of this and the minuscule population of under 40,000 people you can be assured of great ecological balance here in Liechtenstein. Nonetheless, it is the supreme responsibility of the tourists to ensure that they do not ruin this ecological balance and strive to minimise their carbon footprint in every possible manner. Given below in this section of the article are more details for the same, so keep reading to know what exactly is expected from you to be a “responsible tourist”.
To begin with, it is suggested that you check into a hotel that is certified as a green lodging. These will give you a colossal mix of luxuries in the most conceivable reasonable and viable way. This unites confined utilisation of energy, ruling out unreasonable use of power while focussing on regular lighting, utilisation of proficient machines and appliances and shedding single-use goods. These will help you in having an accommodating stay without affecting the atmosphere or local assets preposterously and unreasonably.
By then have a go at the local eateries instead of generally reasonable food brands which serve speedy and tasty yet inauthentic food. The little cafés and bistros that are arranged in the various parts of the nation will acquaint you with the good old fashioned food of Liechtenstein and it will without a doubt be the most amazing aspect of the local culture. This all-around will be fundamentally less expensive and it will uplift your eating experience as a rule. Additionally, attempt to eat at trademark bistro's and appreciate some vegan meals as well.
It is imperative that you buy from neighbourhood markets alluded to run for authenticity and sustenance instead of benefits. You will have a few stores that will think about all of your necessities without unfairly affecting the atmosphere. Significantly more thus, these are known to house some obvious pearls that give you a perception into the local culture and customs. So in like manner, this can be said about the food markets, where you have the event to get some new produce at unfathomable rates. This will assist you in creating legitimate local food effortlessly.
At last, it is recommended that you be an eco-obliging explorer by utilising the different methods of public transportation. The nation of Liechtenstein is known to be home to some respectable methods of private transportation however these are and enormously sensible, you are proposed to take the transport and be somewhat greener. Additionally, you can think about the utilisation of more modest vehicles, pool rides, even bike rentals to get across the significant urban communities.
Air Quality and Pollution
The weather in Liechtenstein is Continental at a low height, while it's Alpine in the mountains. Liechtenstein is a little nation, covering a zone of 160 square kilometres and situated between Austria and Switzerland. In winter, from December to February, overcast and dull days are regular, with downpour or snow, light yet nonstop. Some of the time, while the sky is cloudy in the valley, the sun sparkles in high mountains. Then again, episodes of polar air masses of Siberian origins can bring frigid climate, with most extreme temperatures underneath freezing all over. During summer, from June to August, in times of good climate, there can be blistering temperatures in the valley, which can be hindered by rainstorms, in some cases exceptional, in the early evening or night. In high mountains, where the environment is colder and windier, snowfall can happen for a more drawn out period, contingent upon height. In the mountains, precipitation is more plentiful than in the valley. The Föhn, the southern breeze, warm and dry, descending from the mountains, is more incessant in pre-winter and can prompt abrupt expansions in temperature. The sun in Liechtenstein is seldom seen from November to February, particularly in the valley base. In summer, it sparkles somewhat more frequently, particularly toward the beginning of the day, while in the early evening, storm clouds can grow even in times of good climate.
The ideal opportunity to visit Liechtenstein runs from mid-May to late September, when the climate is gentle or wonderfully warm during the day, yet cool at night in the valley (and even cold in the mountains); in any case, there can be some cool and stormy days, and evening rainstorms are regular, particularly in the mountains. In summer it is recommended that you bring garments for spring and fall, a T-shirt, yet additionally long jeans, a coat, a sweatshirt or sweater for the night and for cooler days; a parka or umbrella. For the mountains, bring a sweater, a coat, climbing shoes, sunscreen and shades. While in winter you are advised to bring comfortable garments, a cap, a coat, a scarf, gloves, and an overcoat or an umbrella.
Liechtenstein is a very small country and with a small industry and just under 40,00 residents. When all of this is taken into consideration it is absolutely no surprise that the country has some excellent AQI ratings no matter which city you monitor. The air is extremely clean and the pollution is way below the concerning limits set by the World Health Organisation. Thus, as a tourist, you can travel to Liechtenstein without any worries and enjoy the crisp air that you can breathe in there. None of the tourists need to carry and prevent gear such as masks, only those who have pre-existing chronic breathing illnesses may need to carry their prescribed medications. Apart from this, only the higher altitudes may result in the air being thinner and cause some discomfort in breathing.
Respect the Culture
Liechtensteiners are exceptionally pleased with their national personality and culture and would disapprove of being wrongly named "German", "Austrian" or "Swiss". The individuals who may feel slanted to criticise the government as an arrangement of government ought to be prompted: the Prince is all around cherished and exceptionally famous, and he is unquestionably held in high regard while talking about national legislative issues. Recall that this is generally a Catholic country. On Sundays, the roads are practically dead aside from the tourists and the traveller shops. Liechtenstein is firmly strict so maintain a strategic distance from dubious religious points too.
Individuals of Liechtenstein are for the most part socially and politically traditionalist. Everyone is amazingly friendly and dedicated. The incredible individuals of Liechtenstein put forth a valiant effort to make your visit agreeable and charming. The people of Liechtenstein are extremely quiet. The vast majority go to work and school in Vaduz. This can be a favourable position for explorers. You will go through the night in a lavish hotel for one day and still get the experience of the country.
Liechtensteiners generally welcome each other by shaking hands. Be warm and gentle with the locals, socialise with them, make small talk, boost their ego maybe by giving them a few compliments. Food and wine often make for great ice breakers and if you are invited to a local's house for a meal, don't turn down the invitation, show up well dressed, with a bottle of wine and some gifts for the kids (if any). Family plays a huge role in society and if you can show your gratitude towards a certain individual's family, you can be assured of seamless blending into Liechtenstein culture.
Top 10 Places to Visit
Liechtenstein is a small country but it does have some truly exciting places for any tourist to visit and enjoy a thoroughly good vacation. In this section of the article, we list out the top 10 places that any tourist headed to the country must visit:
- St. Florin Church and Cathedral: Well, this religious construction is a touch of a Cathedral and a Church. It started out as the Chapel of Saint Florin prior to becoming the Cathedral in Chur in 1375. In old occasions, this was a private church that would have had a place with an aristocrat, yet throughout the years the sanctuary saw a scope of increments that raised its status to that of a basilica. Additionally, in a similar spot, you will discover a burial ground where a few individuals from the royal families are entombed.
- Old Bridge: The Old Bridge over the Rhine is a renowned bridge that associates the regions of Vaduz and Sevelen together. Crossing 135 meters, the bridge dates from 1901 and is the lone wooden bridge that presently curves across the strong Rhine. In the event that you make the excursion here, at that point try to look at the wooden rooftop that traverses the bridge, and you can lease a bike and cycle across as vehicles are not permitted here implying that you can securely take in the greatness of the design and the encompassing territory.
- The Church Hill of Bendern: The Church Hill of Bendern used to be known as the Oath Square and is supposed to be where Liechtenstein was formally made. This is on the grounds that in 1699 a promise was sworn here by the inhabitants of Bendern to Prince Johann Adam Andreas von Liechtenstein and the rest was history. The congregation dates from the sixth century and has been remodelled throughout the long term and is currently Gothic in style.
- Walser Museum: The Walser Museum originally opened its entryways in 1961 and is situated in the lovely town of Triesenberg. The museum was intended to recount the account of how individuals have lived in Triesenberg throughout the long term and you will become familiar with the local traditions and conventions in this part of Europe. With that in mind, there is a media introduction that goes on for almost half an hour and will reveal to you all you require to think about how the town has changed since antiquated occasions. You will likewise discover an area of sculptures in the museum of pieces all cut from wood by local artist Rudolf Schadler.
- Obere Burg and Untere Burg: Liechtenstein is known for its palaces, in spite of the fact that of these there are just two which are still all around safeguarded, to be specific Vaduz Castle and Burg Gutenberg. The rest all lie in brilliant disintegrating remnants, and two of these are situated in Schellenberg. The palaces here comprise of Obere Burg which is the upper manor and was implicit in the year 1200 in the middle age style and Untere Burg which is the lower mansion and dates from 1250 and is the more modest of the two.
- Prince of Liechtenstein Winery: The winery is known for its fabulous Herawingert Vineyards which range 4 hectares of land in the south-west and make probably the most scrumptious wine in the Rhine Valley. When travelling here make it a point to attempt both the red and white assortment of wines on offer which are acclaimed in both Lichtenstein and Europe.
- Red House: The notorious Red House in Vaduz is in the Mitteldorf district of the city and it is known for its dynamic shade and its pinnacle. The outside is a dark red and it presumably dates from around the fifteenth century in spite of the fact that it would have been revamped in the eighteenth century. Through the years, the house has changed hands in spite of the fact that at one time it would have been the site of the Saint Johann Monastery and now you can visit and find out about the historical backdrop of the home just as the more extensive local area.
- Adding machine and Typewriter Museum: This particular museum has definitely justified a visit on the off chance that you are in the Schaan territory of Liechtenstein. Large numbers of the displays here are interactive which implies that the museum is a firm top choice for anyone going with more youthful guests. The museum will take you back in time 150 years and one of the mark attractions is the littlest adding machine on the planet which numerous individuals will not understand was made in Lichtenstein. Here you will discover more than 250 displays that all honour the historical backdrop of mini-computers and typewriters.
- Malbun: Malbun is the exceptional ski resort in Lichtenstein and guests run here to appreciate some colder time of year fun when the snow falls. Malbun is settled in an Alpine edge that is near the dazzling Saminatal Valley and the snow here is supposed to be the absolute best in Europe which makes it ideal for skiing or snowboarding. There are a number of trails here for all degrees of capacity just as a scope of exercises to appreciate after you have hit the slants.
- Postage Stamp Museum: The Postage Stamp Museum makes a fascinating outing in Liechtenstein and is additionally complimentary to enter. It recounts the narrative of the postal assistance in the state throughout the long term and there is an exhibit of how stamps have developed from antiquated occasions to the present day. You can see the actual stamps, just as needle plates and gain proficiency with the printing methods used to make the stamps.
Explore
Exploring the country of Liechtenstein is not a colossal task but the interesting places to visit does surely make it an immensely fun experience, hence, given in the sections below are some of the different types of places that you must explore when touring the country.
City Parks
Liechtenstein is home to a couple of city parks in major cities such as Vaduz and there are plenty of green spaces to explore beyond the boundaries of these parks. Nonetheless, given below are a couple of parks that you must visit on your trip to the country:
- Haberfeld Nature Park
- Chemi
- Rüttistein
National Parks
Liechtenstein is a key region in Europe and its small size does not prevent it from having a few national reserves where tourists can voyage and discover some of the native flora and fauna. These places may have restricted entry but if you manage to wander around these natural reserves your eyes shall be treated by seas of greenery and some rare species that shall serve to be the perfect photo opportunities. A trip to these natural reserves shall additionally be rejuvenating and refreshing, hence, visit any or all of the natural reserves given below:
- Wisanels
- Pflanzenschutzgebiet
- Ruggeller Riet
- Schwabbrunnen - Aescher
- Ruggeller Riet
- Gampriner Seelein
- Au
- Aeulehag
- Birka
- Heilos
- Schneckenaeule
Beaches
Liechtenstein is one of those two rare countries on the planet that are doubly-landlocked. This implies that Liechtenstein is surrounded on all sides by countries that are landlocked themselves and as a result of this all those tourists who were hoping to get some sunshine on sandy beaches and perhaps a dip in the ocean shall be supremely disappointed as the nearest beach isn’t just a few kilometres away but a couple of countries apart at minimum.
Landmarks
Liechtenstein is home to some of the most stunning castles and galleries in the region. The two best landmarks that you must visit on your trip to the country of Liechtenstein are:
- Gutenburg Castle: Situated on a hill that disregards the curious town of Balzers in the south of the nation is the Burg Gutenberg which is one of the best instances of a customary château in Liechtenstein. The mansion would have been worked during the Middle Ages however it is still in amazingly immaculate request and like most forts in the country, it was positioned in an essential area 70 meters above Balzers to monitor over it and spot the looming threats. As the manor has been here since the Neolithic time frame it is brimming with treasures from the period and a portion of the features here incorporate the rich house of prayer and the impeccable rose garden. On the off chance that you come here in the summer season, you can likewise appreciate a scope of occasions, for example, theatrical and musical shows.
- Liechtenstein State Art Gallery: The Liechtenstein Art Gallery is considered Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein and offers a new gander at the arts scene in the district. Here you will discover instances of modern art pieces and the museum has both static and pivoting shows. The lasting assortment has artworks from the nineteenth century onwards and a few things to pay special mind to incorporate those that have a place with the illustrious assortment of the Prince of Liechtenstein.
Museums
Liechtenstein despite its size is known to have a truly rich history, this captivates all the tourists and tells a tale in itself. As a result of this, it is highly recommended that the tourists visit the local museums to get an in-depth view into Liechtenstein’s culture and traditions. Given below are some of the best museums for a tourist to visit on his/her trip to the country:
- Traditional Farmhouse Museum: The Traditional Farmhouse Museum is situated in Schellenberg and is one of the most unusual museums in the country. At the museum, you will discover a farmhouse constructing that was assembled half a millennium prior and the farmhouse is part of the more extensive Liechtenstein National Museum. To get to the museum you should head out to the region of Schellenberg where you will discover the house that dates from the early 16th century. The structure is committed to demonstrating you how individuals would have lived in the times of old and how cultivating strategies would have created since the Middle Ages.
- The Liechtenstein National Museum: It is possessed by the province of Liechtenstein and has an assortment of pieces that recount the tale of how the nation would have created. The museum is housed in a conventional hotel that was inherent the fifteenth century and has the speciality of having whenever been visited by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in the eighteenth century. One of the mark pieces here is a model of Liechtenstein and you will discover religious artwork just as a presentation of conventional weaponry.
- Lawena Museum: The Liechtenstein Power Stations likewise run the Museum of Electricity in Triesen which is an interesting knowledge into the force that runs the country. The shows here run from 1910 until present day times and you can find out about renowned electrical apparatuses like the iron, the electric oven, the clothes washer, and the vacuum cleaner. You can perceive how these created because of the utilization of power just as take in a display about electrical estimating gear and see generators that date from the 20th century.
- Museum Mura: Situated in Mauren is one of the best places to come in the country on the off chance that you need to see a huge assortment of social pieces in a similar spot. The museum has more than ten thousand things in its assortment and you can gain proficiency with about how individuals would have lived in the times of old in Liechtenstein. There are both static and turning displays here and a portion of these incorporate exhibits of things, for example, antiquated handiwork.
Eat
Liechtenstein has an exceptionally different culinary range. On a region of just 160 square kilometres with 37,000 occupants, four fine dining eateries with Gault Millau focuses can be found. Sandwiched between Austria and Switzerland, Liechtenstein's cooking is inspired by these two nations the most. In the event that one considers both food and beverages, it creates the impression that additionally Italy, France and Scotland influence the country of Liechtenstein.
The customary cooking of Liechtenstein is basic and nutritious as the provincial past of the nation has affected the food culture. Liechtenstein's national dish is "Käsknöpfle". "Käsknöpfle" is a basic batter made of flour, eggs, water, salt and pepper is the reason for this culinary joy. The completed Knöpfle are presented with local cheddar, seared onions and apple puree aside. "Ribel" is the name of a dish, which is made out of corn and wheat. The two fixings are cooked in milk and water to a sort of porridge. From that point onward, the porridge must be broiled long and gradually in a griddle. It ought to consistently be blended to get little pieces in a brilliant tone. Customarily, "Ribel" is eaten with apple puree or is essentially plunged in espresso or milk.
As a tourist, you shall have an absolute blast enjoying the local dishes so make sure you have the appetite to relish this lip-smacking cuisine.
Drink
With regards to drinks, the Principality of Liechtenstein has a lot to bring to the table. On around twenty-six hectares the best local wines are made. 99 wineries and the Prince of Liechtenstein Winery keep up more than twenty distinctive plant assortments. In this way, the wines become individual and fruity with an interesting character, practically like in Italy or France. For individuals leaning toward malt and beers, Liechtenstein's two distilleries offer local brews. Regardless of whether dark, wheat, pale or another renowned lager, distilleries in Liechtenstein demonstrate that little nations can brew fantastic lagers, as well. Additionally, the Scots examine Liechtenstein every so often. This is because of the refinery Telser in Triesen. The privately-run company was established 130 years prior and distils in addition to other things, the highly awarded Telsington bourbon. Customary Liechtenstein natural product alcohols made of plums, cherries, apples or pears are additionally delivered by Telser.
Tap-water
The tap water that is available throughout Liechtenstein is known to be extremely safe for consumption and most tourists shall not have an issue with the quality or the taste. However, considering the presence of several wealthy individuals and their demands for excellence, most of the locals and the tourists prefer buying bottled mineral water for consumption. As a tourist, you could choose either option depending upon your demands and your choices.
Activities
Considering how Liechtenstein is in the middle of two nations that are renowned for their beautiful mountain ranges, there is absolutely no doubt that you have a host of outdoor activities that you can indulge in on your trip to the country. To begin with, in the winters when the snowfall is heavy tourists can indulge in some skiing. At the same locations during the summer months, tourists can enjoy hiking and treks whilst exploring the wilderness that the country has to offer. Spending time with mountain animals such as Alpacas and Llamas is also one such activity that tourists can indulge in Liechtenstein, this is truly stress-busting in its own ways. Also, fishing in the scenic lakes of Liechtenstein on a sunny day does have the same effect. Lastly, tourists can try something offbeat and indulge in a detective trail that is conducted in Malbun.
Accommodation
As a tourist, finding accommodation in Liechtenstein is known to be quite easy, the country is small and has a handful of hotels and though they may not seem sufficient to handle the tourists that visit annually, they do the job exceptionally well. These hotels offer a range of amenities and services based on their tariffs and though some of these may seem really expensive, a stay in these shall truly justify the price tags as you shall feel like Liechtenstein nobility at the end of your stay. Given in the sections below are the different kinds of hotels that you can check into in Liechtenstein, so start planning your journey accordingly.
Green Hotels
In Liechtenstein one certainly cannot find too many explicit green hotels but this isn’t exactly a reason to be worried if you are a true-blue eco-friendly tourist. The reason behind this is quite simple, the country as a whole does have strict laws with regard to utilisation of resources, impact of commercial activities on surroundings and any violations lead to heavy penalties. More so, the people of Liechtenstein themselves are extremely conscious and they actively take care of the environment, so when hotels set up shop here you can be assured of them being as sustainable as possible, especially the big international chains who bring their experience and proprietary methods of being eco-friendly. Thus, given below are some hotels that you should consider as accommodation on your trip to the country:
- Vögeli Alpenhotel Malbun
- Hotel Oberland
- Gorfion – Das Familienhotel
- Residence Hotel
- Park Hotel Sonnenhof
Hostels and Guest Houses
Hostels are a marvellous accommodation decision for those tourists who are going solo to the stunning country of Liechtenstein and wish to meet like-minded people without being limited to the walls of one room. These hostels additionally offer a wide assortment of conveniences and extravagances at a small portion of the cost of hotels, in this manner, given under is the only hostel that you could book yourself at and make the most of your visit to the country:
- Schaan-Vaduz Youth Hostel
Apartments
Leasing apartments is known to be very common in the significant urban areas of Liechtenstein. As long as you make use of reliable applications or sites, it will be a decent idea to attempt to meander and book via the web. Airbnb is the most ideal decision here for most tourists while leasing condos in the country. Many of the apartments in Liechtenstein offer exceptional views and don't even cost as much as the pricey hotels. Here you can cook your own meals and you can also stay with a couple of friends who may be accompanying you. Be assured of your privacy and a value for money deal in most cases.
Couchsurfing
Couch Surfing is very ordinary in Liechtenstein and it's definitely not an untouchable idea to many tourists headed here. As a voyager, you could peruse a couple of options, find friendly hosts, connect, do what needs to be done to seal the deal and you are set to go. Likewise ensure that you are useful to your host, guarantee that things are spotless and show a little appreciation through some good meals and even small gift perhaps at the end of your stay.
Camping
The mesmerising outdoors of Liechtenstein certainly serve to be a major incentive for the local people and the tourists alike to step out and enjoy the wilderness. Irrespective of the season, there are people who always want to enjoy the wilderness overnight and thus camping is a great option if tourists too want to do the same. There are a couple of designated camping areas where you can pitch a tent and have some fun by yourself perhaps even with a loved one, friends, or family. On the other hand if you wish to enjoy something organised and more systemic, then you can opt for places such as Camping Mittagspitze AG where you have modern amenities and luxuries blended in the lap of nature.
Regions
Cities
Getting There and Moving Around
Being a small and rather less significant destination compared to its popular and huge neighbours, Liechtenstein does face connectivity issues and while travelling around the small country may not be much of an issue, getting there shall be slightly challenging. Hence, in the sections given below are details about how to get there and move around.
Air
Liechtenstein has no air terminals because of the size of the country. You can take a trip to Zürich Airport which is 115 kilometres away. Albeit the air terminal was the solitary significant air terminal close to Liechtenstein, there were some restricted administrations from Vienna to St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport which is 53 kilometres away by Austrian Arrows. There is a heliport in Balzers claimed and worked by Swiss Helicopter. From that point, one can take grand trips around the country or book transport flights, for example from or to Zurich air terminal. The last being private charter flights, not planned ones, cost around 4500 USD for up to 5 travellers.
Bus
Liechtenstein Bus is a bus organisation situated in the capital city. The organisation works on thirteen routes all through Liechtenstein. Numerous buses worked by Liechtenstein Bus shuttle over the boundaries into Switzerland and Austria.
Train
The least demanding method of getting to Liechtenstein via train is to go to Sargans or Buchs in Switzerland, or Feldkirch in Austria, and afterwards take a bus to Liechtenstein.
Hitchhiking
From generally nearby countries, you will easily hitch a ride to Liechtenstein It is a bold outing, which helps with saving a lot of money and also make acquaintance with the locals. More so, the local people of the nation are obliging and will give you a ride without a second thought.
Others
In addition to the above-listed means of transportation, tourists can rent private vehicles and drive down to Liechtenstein or even walk across the border between Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
Sustainable Shopping
Shopping sustainably is a basic idea of keeping up the balance in the general populace, the little stores routinely think about unequivocal essentials with monetarily made goods. They do serve to be charming spots particularly for explorers who are searching for some uncommon things and fine craftsmanship.
Recycling
The nation is one of the world's best recyclers of waste as each inhabitant of Liechtenstein recycles more than four hundred and fifty kilograms of recyclable material every year.
Waste
The waste that is recycled is also collected in an orderly manner with proper methods of segregation being employed by the conscious citizens of this country.
Work and Study Abroad
While the populace is small and it may seem like work and education opportunities may be limited, it is quite the contrary and the low unemployment rates and universities do attract expats and international students.
Exchange Student
The four main universities of Liechtenstein may not seem too attractive but being ranked tenth globally in terms of quality of education, there are plenty of exchange students backed by government schemes and scholarships.
Au Pair
Being an Au Pair in Liechtenstein is a great idea if you are a young individual. You may have to find the perfect listing for the same and this may be time consuming as people are particular but the lack of choices shall lead to easy employment.
Volunteering
Volunteering in Liechtenstein is not very straightforward as the country doesn’t face too many social and monetary issues but there is some welfare activity or the other taking place regularly, you can offer a helping hand there whenever you feel like.